Don't Waste Your Money is supported by our readers. When you purchase an item through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Toddler Shoes

Last updated on January 8, 2024
Best Toddler Shoes

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in a category.

When your little ones start toddling around, you may be on the lookout for some shoes. Keep in mind that when they are indoors, toddlers don’t actually need to wear shoes. It’s better for them to be barefoot, so they can work on their balance and walking form. Being barefoot enables them to grip the ground better with their little toes. When they are outside, of course, they will need some functional footwear to protect their feet from the elements.

When you’re buying your first pair of toddler shoes, it’s best to measure their feet accurately so you purchase the right size. While they are growing, their feet may be two different sizes, up to a half-size apart. Be sure to measure both feet and buy the larger size. Toddler feet grow quickly, so you may need to measure and re-buy shoes on a fairly frequent basis. It’s common for toddlers to curl their toes inwards when they first learn to stand and walk. When you’re measuring their feet, be sure to measure with the toes extended so you can get a better picture of their shoe size.

When trying on shoes for the first time, be sure to have a pair of socks handy. If your toddler will be wearing shoes with socks, then try them on with the same kind of socks. This can make a difference in the size of the shoe you’ll need. Pay attention to how much extra space there is in the shoe. You will want about half an inch of extra space between their big toe and the end of the shoe.

It’s can be tempting to buy toddler shoes in a size bigger, hoping they will grow into them in a few weeks. While toddler feet do grow fast, it’s best for their balance and safety to wear shoes that fit right now. Avoid buying shoes that are too big, which could lead to your toddler tripping and falling.

Our Picks For The Top Toddler Shoes

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
  The Best Overall

Native Shoes Kids’ Slip-On Toddler Shoes

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Native Shoes

Kids' Slip-On Toddler Shoes

These sneakers are great for toddlers who enjoy playing in the water. The shoes have perforations all over to help dry little feet.

Overall Take

Waterproof and Shock-AbsorbentThese toddler shoes are made from ethylene-vinyl acetate and are completely waterproof.

 Best Suede

Saucony Suede Low-Top Toddler Shoes

Saucony

Suede Low-Top Toddler Shoes

The Saucony Kids'/Baby Sneakers are made out of suede and mesh, providing flexibility, durability and comfort. The shoes are easy to take off and put on, both for parents and kids.

Overall Take

Easy On/Off ShoeThe Saucony Kids'/Baby Sneakers have a large Velcro hook and loop closure that’s easy for kids and parents.

  The Best Value

K KomForme Rubber Toe Cap Canvas Shoes For Toddler Boys

K KomForme

Rubber Toe Cap Canvas Shoes For Toddler Boys

Breathable canvas and fun patterns make this a great shoe whether you’re hanging out around the house or going out on the town. You’ll get a breathable canvas upper to keep your feet comfortable and cool even during the warmer months. It fastens using Velcro to eliminate worries about being tripped by untied shoelaces.

Overall Take

For Dinosaur LoversThe variety of dinosaur patterns with this shoe will help you find the perfect option for your child.

 Also Great

PUMA Carson 2 Suede Upper Hook & Loop Closure Shoes For Toddler Boys

PUMA

Carson 2 Suede Upper Hook & Loop Closure Shoes For Toddler Boys

A suede upper and rubber outsole makes this toddler shoe similar to the tennis shoes that older kids wear for sports and everyday use. The sole has a nonskid bottom to provide stability on most surfaces. Velcro closure eliminates worries about untied shoelaces and makes it easy for older toddlers to learn to put on their own shoes.

Overall Take

Great for Rough PlayThe sturdy build of these toddler shoes makes it ideal for more active toddlers.

What to Look For

  • STRAPS: One of the most challenging things to do with a toddler is put on their shoes. You want to make sure that the shoes have adjustable straps that are easy to open and close. This will make putting on and taking off their shoes a breeze. It will also help your toddler to learn how to put on and take off their own shoes, and help them feel like a big kid. Some sneakers have a large Velcro hook and loop closure at the top of the shoe, making them simple to put on and remove the sneakers. Others have two elastic laces at the top of the shoe, making them flexible and bendable.
  • SOLE: The sole of the shoe is an important aspect to consider because this is what keeps your little one from slipping and sliding. Look for soles that have some tread. This will help them to grip the ground. On the other hand, you also don’t want grooves that are too large on the soles, as those may catch on the ground and cause your toddler to trip.
  • MATERIAL: One of the most important things to consider when buying toddler shoes is the material they are made out of. Opt for a breathable material like canvas, cloth or leather, which all allow air to circulate. They are also flexible and soft materials. This is a better choice than plastic or rubber, which can be stiff and hard to move around in. It’s important to provide toddlers with flexibility in their feet so they can work on their balance and gross motor skills without being restricted by their footwear. Some sneakers are made from ethylene-vinyl acetate and have a rubber sole, while other options are constructed from suede with a mesh top panel.
  • WATERPROOF: Many kids love to get messy, jumping or splashing in puddles by the side of the road. When that happens, it’s no fun to deal with wet socks and soggy feet. Whenever possible, find waterproof toddler shoes. This way, you don’t have to worry about ruining the shoes if they get wet accidentally. And you don’t have to worry about your little one squelching around in wet socks for the rest of the day.

More to explore